Steven Alker takes commanding lead at 2023 Charles Schwab Cup Championship

Steven Alker emerged victorious at the 2022 Charles Schwab Cup, marking his first season-long triumph on the PGA Tour Champions.

This year, despite Steve Stricker having already clinched the series title, Alker will content himself with clinching the season’s final tournament, the 2023 Charles Schwab Cup Championship.

Alker delivered a remarkable 6-under 65 performance on the 6,860-yard Phoenix Country Club during the third round on yet another stunning November day in the Valley of the Sun. With seven birdies and just one bogey on Saturday, he will carry a four-shot 54-hole lead into the next phase of the tournament.

Clearly at ease on this central city, parkland-style layout, Alker has showcased his skill by amassing 20 birdies and only three bogeys over the course of three days. Notably, he has scored birdies on holes 1, 4, and 5 on all three days. His 14-under on the front side and 3-under on the back further solidify his dominance.

Now calling Scottsdale home, Alker appears confident about finishing strong. “Well, it’s a home game, I’ve got family and friends here, it would be huge,” he said. “I can’t win the Schwab Cup again, but hey, No. 2’s better than No. 3, right?”

Alex Cejka stands as Alker’s closest pursuer at 13 under, with Thongchai Jaidee and last year’s tournament winner Padraig Harrington tied for third at 12 under. Second-round co-leader Marco Dawson, however, slipped back into a tie for 13th after a 74 on Saturday. First-round leader Ernie Els is among five golfers tied for fifth at 11 under, showcasing the intense competition.

Amidst this display of skill and determination, nine golfers have recorded scores in the 60s in all three rounds so far, highlighting the extraordinary talent on display.

The 72-hole, no-cut season-ender will draw to a close on Sunday, with the top spot carrying a substantial prize of $528,000.

Story originally appeared on GolfWeek